By Cameron Chai
Eastman Chemical Company has recently laid the foundation of a new plant in Heifei, China to manufacture acetate tow. The new facility will be operated and owned by Eastman Shuangwei Fibers Company (ESFCL), which is a partnership firm with China National Tobacco, and it is estimated to generate 30,000 t of acetate tow on the completion of the plant.
Chairman of the ESFCL board and senior vice president of International Ventures stated that Eastman and China National Tobacco have been enjoying a long-term relationship for over 20 years. He added that he expects to additionally fortify their relationship as a part of this new joint venture.
Owing to this joint venture, Eastman will be able to extend its operation into the world’s rapidly growing economy, China. This plant is the company’s first investment in China for an acetate tow facility. The plant will be functional from the middle of 2013
Vice President and General Manager of Eastman’s Fiber Division, Linda Hensley stated that the company is dedicated to expanding its global acetate tow business and this joint venture is a display of that dedication. China plays a significant role in the company’s expansion plans and this new plant will satisfy the growing needs of the customers, she added.
The plastics, fibers and chemicals are utilized as major constituents in products utilized by people daily. The company is dedicated to discovering sustainable business opportunities in the different geographies and markets served by it.
Source: http://www.eastman.com